The GIF is, objectively, the greatest innovation in the history of human civilization. The Human Achievement Power Index™ is as follows:

1. GIF
2. Fire
3. Lean Pockets
782. Baby wipe warmers

Photos? They’re static, bro. They just sit there on a page, unmoving, like they’re hiding from a T-rex or were bored to death by an Outlander episode. GIFs are alive, dammit! They’re dynamic! They capture a memorable scene, or moment of intense human embarrassment or suffering, then perpetually repeat without you ever needing to press refresh. Like this:

Twenty fourteen provided an Amazon warehouse full of spectacular pop-culture GIFs. Check out our favorites below, then add yours in the comments because this is was the Internet was designed for.

If only the people who shot him in the 90s had similar aim:

Being drunk in public must be fun:

Cubs fans, take note: this is what happens when a bat connects with a round white object:

Officials don’t deserve to touch Steve Smith’s balls:

Speaking of touching balls:

Tim Watley realizes his lifelong dream:

The GIF that launched a thousand think pieces:

Both the worst and funniest sports play of 2014. A GUY PRETENDS TO DROP DEAD IN A REAL-LIFE FOOTBALL GAME PEOPLE: